Biofortification of Iron in Wheat Varieties Using Different Methods of Application

To evaluate the effect of iron (Fe) and its application methods on bio-fortification of wheat varieties, a field study was carried out at the Agricultural Research Farm, The University of Agriculture Peshawar, during Rabi crop season 2018–19. The experiment was arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with split plots having three replicates. Three wheat varieties (Pirsabak-2013, Atta Habib and Janbaz) were planted in main plots, while four Fe application methods (broadcast, soil spray, seed priming and foliar spray), in addition to the control treatment (No Fe supply) were distributed in the subplots. Ferrous sulphat (FeSO4.7H2O) was used as source of Fe at the rate of 10 kg ha−1. The statistical analysis of the data showed the significant variations among the varieties for different parameters. Biological yield, grain yield and grains spike−1recorded maximum value with variety Pirsabak-2013 compared to the other two tested varieties, while Atta Habib produced the maximum 1000-grain weight. Iron content of grain, leaf and post-harvest soil was not significantly increased in different varieties. Among the different Fe application methods, the maximum value of biological yield, grain yield, grains spike−1and 1000-grain weight were recorded with foliar application. Maximum assimilation of Fe in wheat grains and leaves was also recorded from foliar application. The results indicate an increase of 41 and 86% in grain and leaf Fe respectively due to foliar application greater than the control plots. High content of Fe in soil after crop harvest was measured from broadcast method. The current study reveals that variety Pirsabak-2013 is better regarding wheat yield and its attributes, while foliar application of Fe proved to be more effective for assimilation of Fe in leaf and grain.